Katerina Stefanidi Captures NCAA Title in the Pole Vault

DES MOINES, Iowa -- Two of Stanford's most decorated track and field athletes finished their collegiate careers on Wednesday and it was Katerina Stefanidi who came through with the NCAA title. The other, Chris Derrick, battled hard in the 10,000 meters, but had to settle for third.

Stefanidi's title capped a big day for the Stanford women who lead the NCAA meet after day 1 with 18 points. The men got the six points from Derrick and are tied for seventh after the first day.

The title from Stefanidi was the big news of the day, but the Cardinal women also set three new school records. Brianna Bain broke her own school record in the javelin on her way to a runner-up finish, while Justine Fedronic (800 meters) and the 4x100-meter relay also posted school-record marks.

Stefanidi who had been the NCAA runner-up a year ago, cleared 14-7 ¼ on her first try and was the only competitor over that height. Three had advanced to the winning height, but after the other two failed on all three tries, Stefandi clinched the title. She became the first Stanford woman to win an NCAA title in the pole vault.

After clinching the title, the bar was moved to 4.50 meters, which is the Olympic `A' Standard. On her final attempt, Stefanidi nearly cleared the height, but instead will have to wait to clinch her trip to London to compete for the Greek team.